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“I Don’t Feel It At All”

Last year, Bucs safeties led the team in tackles. Joe has nightmares of serial loafer chasing rabid running backs in the second and third levels of the defense as fans cried their eyes out.

This year is a different story. Again, Bucs rookie Lavonte David had a monster afternoon, racking up 13 tackles today, one for a loss. He now has 80 through nine games. Remember how Barrett Ruud was routinely lauded for busting 100 in a season? David, if he stays healthy, is on pace for 142.

After the game, Joe chatted with the humble rookie, who also calls the Bucs defensive signals.

JoeBucsFan.com: You’ve racked up a hell of a lot of tackles so far this season? Do you feel it? Is your body talking to you?

Lavonte David: No, I don’t feel it at all, man. I do a good job trying taking care of my body through the week. I’ve got a whole bunch of vets around me who have been through the same thing I’ve been through. They give me all kinds of [advice], as much as they can so I can keep up through the year.

Joe: You’re essentially doing at the NFL level what you did at Nebraska, making plays all over the field and being a tackling machine. Are you ever surprised at all?

David: No. I just love the game of football, you know, man? I just try to do what I can. I’m just thanking God for putting me in this place here. So I just go out and do what I do. My teammates, I can’t thank those guys enough, they really keep me motivated and keep me humble.

Joe: Derrick Brooks is in touch with lots of Buccaneers. Have you had a chance to meet with him and talk about linebacker play and life?

David: I haven’t had the chance to really sit down and talk to him. But we talk a little by text, but nothing man-to-man yet. I need to take time out of my day one day sit down and talk with him. That would be a great boost for me and a great thing for me.

Joe: What’s been the biggest surprise of your NFL experience?

David: I mean week in and week out (laughs) I know now it’s going to be a ballgame no matter what. I mean, you know, week in and week out your against the best of the best.